How much sun does Common Fireweed need?

Common Fireweed grows best in part shade conditions.

When does Common Fireweed bloom?

Common Fireweed blooms in March, April, May, June, July, August, and September.

Where is Common Fireweed native?

Common Fireweed (Senecio vulgaris) is native to TN, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

Is Common Fireweed toxic to livestock?

Common Fireweed is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (slight severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.

What pollinators does Common Fireweed attract?

Common Fireweed draws bees, flies, and beetles.

Is Common Fireweed HOA-friendly?

Common Fireweed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Common Fireweed

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Senecio vulgaris

Last reviewed: June 2026

Common Fireweed is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a slight level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

6"–24" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

Pollinators

bees, flies, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Sierra Nevada Central California Valley Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains Southern California Mountains Central Basin and Range Mojave Basin and Range Sonoran Basin and Range

Common fireweed is a small annual wildflower that grows 6-24 inches tall with inconspicuous flowers that bloom from spring through fall. This native plant prefers partial shade and moderate moisture, making it suitable for understory areas. Despite its name, it produces small yellow flowers rather than showy blooms.

In an HOA neighborhood

Common Fireweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

Often considered a weed due to common name and appearance
Inconspicuous flowers may look unkempt
Annual nature creates seasonal bare spots

Wildlife value

The long blooming period from March through September provides nectar for bees, flies, and beetles throughout the growing season.

Common questions

How much sun does Common Fireweed need?: Common Fireweed grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Common Fireweed bloom?: Common Fireweed blooms in March, April, May, June, July, August, and September.
Where is Common Fireweed native?: Common Fireweed (Senecio vulgaris) is native to TN, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Common Fireweed toxic to livestock?: Common Fireweed is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (slight severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
What pollinators does Common Fireweed attract?: Common Fireweed draws bees, flies, and beetles.
Is Common Fireweed HOA-friendly?: Common Fireweed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Common Fireweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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